Explore the horror, history and paranormal activities that are associated with one of the most sacred sites of Luang Prabang, Laos. Wat Phra That Tham Pha is a stunning Golden Rock Temple that is believed to have a mysterious and mystical energy to it, and visiting it will make you question your own beliefs. Read on to venture into the unknown through this horror story, history and paranomial activities of Wat Phra That Tham Pha.
Horror Story of Wat Phra That Tham Pha (Golden Rock Temple) - Luang Prabang
Back in the 1800s, a small fishing villager in Luang Prabang had been suffering from a terrible drought. He was desperate and willing to do anything to bring the rains back to his village. So he went to the Temple of Golden Rock, Wat Phra That Tham Pha, and offered up a heartfelt prayer to the gods.
The gods answered his prayers. In a dramatic event, a powerful storm broke out over the temple. The thunder sounded like battle drums and the lightning danced across the sky. It wasn't just any storm, the locals concluded it must have been a sign that the gods had answered this villager’s prayer. The villagers of Luang Prabang saw the storm as a blessing from their gods.
Unfortunately, there was a hidden cost to the storm’s gifts that quickly revealed itself in the days after. Following the storm, strange and terrifying creatures began emerging from the temple's caverns. The creatures were said to possess supernatural abilities, proving to be a menace to the villagers and the local wildlife.
The locals became so afraid of these creatures and their powers that they refused to venture any closer than the edge of their village to the temple grounds. This tradition continued for centuries and before long, the villagers began to tell horror stories about the creatures emerging from Temple of Golden Rock, warning children and travelers alike to avoid it at all costs - lest they unwittingly become victims of one of the creatures lurking deep beneath the temple.
If you want to visit one of the most haunted places in the world, you must visit it here History & Information of Wat Phra That Tham Pha (Golden Rock Temple) - Luang Prabang
Wat Phra That Tham Pha, or the Golden Rock Temple, is located on the banks of the Mekong River in the city of Luang Prabang in Laos. The temple is said to be one of the oldest temples in Luang Prabang and is believed to have been built in 1540 during the rule of King Setthathirat. The temple was originally built to house a sacred Buddha relic that is believed to have been brought to the Luang Prabang region from India.
The temple is known for its golden rock, or stupa, which is believed to protect the relic. The golden rock is decorated with gold and precious stones and is covered by a white cloth shawl, signed by the King at the time. According to legend, the Golden Rock will remain atop the temple until the end of the world.
The temple complex itself consists of several buildings, including a Vihara hall, a sermon hall, and a statue of the Buddha. Other statues in the complex include a reclining Buddha and a large bronze statue of Buddha.
The temple has been part of the city's vibrant cultural and spiritual life for centuries and remains one of the most popular destinations for tourists. The temple is also a popular spot for worshipping Buddhists and is a common site for ceremonies and festivals.
At the base of the Golden Rock Temple is a settlement of monks and nuns who lead a very simple lifestyle. The monks and nuns are known to have great respect for the temple and for the Buddha. Visitors to the temple are expected to behave in a respectful manner and dress appropriately.
Paranomial Activity of Wat Phra That Tham Pha (Golden Rock Temple) - Luang Prabang
1. Offerings to the temple – Offerings to the temple consist of flowers, incense, candles, and food that visitors bring to the temple. There is also a general offering of Cambodian coins and paper bank notes – many visitors choose to leave these offerings at the temple each time they visit.
2. Meditation and prayers – People can come to the Golden Rock Temple to meditate and rest in its peaceful and serene environment. Visitors can also come to seek blessings from the temple’s monks and pray for whatever intentions or wishes they may have.
3. Puja Ceremonies – The Golden Rock Temple holds Puja ceremonies on a regular basis throughout the year. During these ceremonies, incense, candles, and offerings of flowers and food are made to the main shrine.
4. Events – Several seasonal festivals are held at the Golden Rock Temple each year. During these festivals, traditional rituals and offerings are part of the celebrations.
5. Education – Wat Phra That Tham Pha has a school attached to it, located in the back of the temple grounds. Here, the monks provide education for children on meditation and Buddhism.
This abundant place has earned its reputation as the most haunted place in the world. Experience of people & Reviews of Wat Phra That Tham Pha (Golden Rock Temple) - Luang Prabang
People who have visited Wat Phra That Tham Pha in Luang Prabang have been positive in their reviews. Most visitors are amazed at the stunning architecture and unique design of the temple, which houses a massive golden Buddha statue. They emphasise its impressive size and depth of history. Many have commented on how the temple is a must-see attraction, and that it serves as an incredible reminder of how beautiful traditional Lao architecture is. They also talk about the friendly locals who greet visitors and the stunning views from the temple, as well as the intriguing statues of various Hindu gods inside. Also highlighted are the offerings of food and drinks available at the temple, from which a portion of the proceeds go towards preserving its upkeep and beauty.
FAQ'S of Wat Phra That Tham Pha (Golden Rock Temple) - Luang Prabang
Q1. Where is Wat Phra That Tham Pha located?
A1. Wat Phra That Tham Pha is located in Luang Prabang in Laos.
Q2. What is the significance of Wat Phra That Tham Pha?
A2. Wat Phra That Tham Pha is a holy Buddhist temple and is believed to house a piece of a relic of Buddha. It is also known for its iconic 'Golden Rock' you can find at the base of the temple.
Q3. What can visitors see at Wat Phra That Tham Pha?
A3. Visitors can see a number of features including the iconic 'Golden Rock', a large seated Buddha image, several other smaller statues and frescoes on the walls.
Q4. What days is Wat Phra That Tham Pha open to visitors?
A4. Wat Phra That Tham Pha is open 7 days a week and can be visited between the hours of 8:30am and 5:00pm.
Q5. Is there an entrance fee to visit Wat Phra That Tham Pha?
A5. Yes, there is an entrance fee of 20,000 Kip (approx. $2.30 USD).